Marcus Mariota Reportedly Named Starting QB of Oregon Ducks

Having dominated the Pac-12 conference for the last three years, the Oregon Ducks will be going through a transitional season with a new starting quarterback and running back in 2012.

While the mystery of the starting quarterback has been dragged out all throughout preseason camp, head coach Chip Kelly is reportedly ready to make a final decision.

According to Aaron Fentress of The Oregonian, the competition between sophomore Bryan Bennett and redshirt freshman Marcus Mariota ended with the super frosh getting the call.

Redshirt freshman Marcus Mariota has been named the starting quarterback for the Oregon Ducks, according to a team source.

Which QB is the best fit for Oregon's offense?

Bryan BennettMarcus MariotaSubmit Votevote to see results

Which QB is the best fit for Oregon's offense?

Bryan Bennett

28.4%

Marcus Mariota

71.6%

Total votes: 1,735

Bennett had limited experience with the Ducks' offense, having completed 25 of 46 passes for 369 yards and six touchdowns in seven games played last season. He also had 199 yards rushing.

Mariota was the 12th-ranked quarterback prospect in the country, according to Rivals. He is only 185 pounds but, as the article mentions, has good arm strength and the speed to make plays happen with his legs, which is imperative in this offense.

The Ducks, despite losing Darron Thomas and LaMichael James, enter the season with high expectations. They are ranked No. 5 in both the AP and USA Today polls.